Topic: Question of Palestinian Statehood
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: John Dood
School: Forest Hills Northern High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Germany position papers GLIMUN 2012 committees
Ever since the formation of the current Israeli government, Germany has seen conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people. In more recent years, the conflict has escalated. Palestinian suicide bombers are a constant source of fear to the general Israeli populous. Israel has unjustly retaliated by bulldozing houses of suicide bombers. The basic human rights of many Palestinians are being challenged by an Israeli government that is simply trying to maintain national sovereignty and security.
The only way to change this status quo in this region is to seek a solution that pleases both sides. The best way to accomplish this is for both sides of the conflict to let go of their reservations and fear and enter good faith negotiations with each other. This cannot happen while both sides continue to accuse each other of war crimes. Therefore, Germany suggests absolving Israel and the Palestinian people of all charges against each other. In order to maintain diplomatic order while the terms of peace are determined, recompense for these crimes must be given from international sources.
After analysis of the governing ability of both Israel and the Palestinian people, Germany recommends that the Palestinian people be given independence and, in turn, international protection from Israel. This cannot happen until Israel recognizes Palestine as an independent nation with sovereignty. Shortly following, the Security Council should grant them full recognition with a voting seat in the United Nations.
Currently in the state of Israel, Palestinian citizens must apply for a permit in order to own land, and the Israeli government does not accept enough of these permits to be able to house the population. This law would be a major contributor to conflict in the region and its continued enforcement will hamper all peace efforts. Therefore, in order to ensure the well being of non-Jewish residents in Israel, it is important that the Special Political Committee requests that the Legal Committee consider the question of property ownership as a human right.
It is important that all member nations set aside their ulterior motives and work together to promote peace between Israel and the Palestinian people. The Federal Republic of Germany is confident that the work done by this committee will lead to a strong Israeli state and a growing, independent Palestinian government.
